South Sydney Rabbitohs fans are bracing for potential delays to the start of the NRL season for key players Latrell Mitchell and David Fifita, with both sidelined due to injury concerns. The news comes as teams finalize preparations for the upcoming pre-season trials.
According to reports, Mitchell and Fifita will both have a week off training as a precaution. The Rabbitohs were significantly impacted by injuries throughout the 2025 season, with several stars including Mitchell, Cody Walker, Cameron Murray, and Campbell Graham spending extended periods on the sidelines, and the club will be hoping to avoid a repeat of that misfortune.
Despite the injury concerns, there is optimism surrounding Fifita’s integration into the South Sydney squad. Newly signed from the Titans, Fifita will be looking to recapture his form under the guidance of experienced coach Wayne Bennett, as reported by the ABC on February 3, 2026. Bennett’s experience will be crucial in helping Fifita overcome a season lost to injury.
The Rabbitohs are still planning to unveil Fifita in their pre-season trial against the Manly Sea Eagles. Mitchell may also feature in the match, potentially in a novel position, though his availability remains uncertain.
Elsewhere in the league, the Parramatta Eels are set to showcase their new halves pairing of Mitchell Moses and Jonah Pezet against the Sydney Roosters. The Roosters are expected to field their new spine recruits in the same trial match.
The pre-season trials are heating up, with several matches scheduled for the coming weeks. The New Zealand Warriors will face the Gold Coast Dolphins on February 20th at Leichhardt Oval, while the Wests Tigers will host the Penrith Panthers. The Cronulla Sharks will play the Canberra Raiders at Polytec Stadium, Gosford, and the Roosters will face the Eels at the same venue. The Melbourne Storm will travel to the Sunshine Coast to take on the Gold Coast Titans on February 22nd.
The NRL season is set to initiate on March 2nd, with the Raiders taking on the Warriors. Fans can watch the 2026 NRL Pre-season series and All-Star matches live and ad-break free on FOX LEAGUE, available through Kayo Sports.